Learning root words is one of the fastest ways to grow a vocabulary, because a single root can unlock the meaning of dozens of words. This list focuses on three common roots, dict, meaning to say, graph, meaning to write, and port, meaning to carry, so learners can see the pattern repeat across many familiar words.
A collection of documents, artwork, or financial investments held by a person or organization.
The photographer put together a portfolio of her best work before the interview.
No matching words in this collection.
The dict root
Dict comes from the Latin word dicere, meaning to say or speak. Words built on this root often involve declaring, announcing, or stating something, as in dictate, when someone says words for another person to write down, or verdict, the decision a jury states after a trial. A dictionary is simply a book that tells, or says, what words mean.
The graph root
Graph comes from the Greek word graphein, meaning to write or draw. Words with this root usually involve creating a written or visual record, such as autograph, a person's own handwritten signature, or photograph, an image drawn by light. Geography, biography, and paragraph all describe different kinds of writing or recording information.
The port root
Port comes from the Latin word portare, meaning to carry. Words with this root describe moving something from one place to another, as in transport, to carry across a distance, or import and export, to carry goods into or out of a country. An airport is simply a place built for carrying people and cargo by plane.
Frequently asked questions
What does the root dict mean?
Dict comes from Latin and means to say or speak, so words like dictate, dictionary, and verdict all involve speaking or declaring something.
What does the root port mean?
Port comes from Latin and means to carry, seen in words like transport, import, and portable.
What does the root graph mean?
Graph comes from Greek and means to write or draw, as in autograph, paragraph, and photograph.